SAQA

All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.

SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Occupational Certificate: Religious Associate Professional (Hindu Congregational Leader)

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
102002	Occupational Certificate: Religious Associate Professional (Hindu Congregational Leader)
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - HWSETA (Social Work)
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate	Field 07 - Human and Social Studies		Religious and Ethical Foundations of Society
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	297	Not Applicable	NQF Level 06	Regular-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0425/24	2018-07-01	2025-12-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-30		2029-12-30

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification.

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Hindu Congregational Leader.

A Hindu Congregational Leader conducts rites, rituals and ceremonies in order to minister to the spiritual needs of the Hindu community.

A qualified learner will be able to:

Perform rites and rituals in order to improve spiritual awareness, spiritual growth and understanding of the scriptures.

Empower the congregation to understand and practice Hindu values.

Fulfil social responsibilities within a religious context.

Support the Temple management and ensure sustainability (Public Relations).

Participate in and provide leadership to external affairs and support community well-being (Provincial, local, national and regional).

Rationale:
The Hindu Community is a reasonably diverse community, but they have, over the last 124 years structured and organised themselves around an organisation called the Hindu Maha Sabha. This organisation has taken up the responsibility of looking after the interests of the total Hindu Community, they have affiliations from most of the Hindu organisations and working relationships with all the organisations. They have also been recognised by government as the body that represents the Hindu interests and as such, representatives of this body serve on a number of inter faith structures that advise government on religious issues. Through their discussions over the years the need for a recognised qualification became very apparent.

Currently there are approximately 500 practising priests within South Africa. A problem exists with the registration of these Priests because there is no commonly accepted standard for this. Problems occur in communities where Priests practice without formal qualifications. It is also difficult to recognise qualifications obtained outside South Africa because there is no common standard to measure these qualifications. The Hindu Community, through their national representatives have identified the need to standardize the training of Priests and they will use this qualification for purposes of recognizing Priests.

Specific needs that the qualification will meet:
The standardisation of the requirements and professionalism of the Hindu Congregational Leaders/Priests is paramount for the achievement of social harmony and moral re-generation in the communities. These leaders play a critical role in influencing their communities regarding a range of social issues, they assist in the debunking of unacceptable myths relating to health issues, support national community development projects and create an environment where Congregational members can find solace for a range of personal and socio-economic challenges. This Occupational Certificate will enable the qualifying practitioners to support their constituency members in hospitals, old age homes, orphanages, prisons etc. It will also create a basis through which possible unethical practices by religious leaders can be identified and effectively managed.

Benefits to society:
Through the effective implementation of this qualification there will be a reduction of unregulated practices; improvement in the quality of understanding of the religion and cultural values; support for social cohesion; moral regeneration and a preservation of the Hindu culture. It will assist in protecting the integrity of the culture; increasing the communities trust in the Priest and ultimately support the dynamics of a productively functioning civil society.

Range of learning and areas of typical employment:
The essential focus of the occupational Certificate is on the effective use of the Hindu scriptures and the proper application of the traditions and rituals associated with the various Hindu belief systems. However, the qualification will also enable the Hindu Congregational leader to function effectively as a community leader and to apply sound practices when dealing with the social, emotional and personal problems of congregants. The need for professional referrals is emphasised and qualifying persons will have the capabilities to support the initiative of social and community development professionals. Persons with this qualification will be able to find employment in the various Hindu Temples, in non-governmental organisations and also in the formal social and community development fields.

Contribution to the National Development Strategy:
The National Development Plan aims to eliminate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030. According to the plan, South Africa can realise these goals by drawing on the energies of its people, growing an inclusive economy, building capabilities, enhancing the capacity of the state, and promoting leadership and partnerships throughout society.

The structure and intent of this occupational certificate is in total support of this development strategy. Religious practitioners are key to mobilising communities in supporting economic development and in creating conducive environments for investment and economic growth. The potential impact of this type of qualification on moral re-generation and social harmony alone is invaluable for the eventual achievement of the national objectives of a better life for all the people of South Africa.

Learning Pathway:
Learners will enter this qualification directly from school, or from the community. There is also a growing demand for this type of qualification from outside of South Africa. This qualification will create an entry into the social services world and articulation from here can be to Higher education qualifications or the Occupational certificates in the various social fields.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record.

RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

Entry Requirements:

National Senior Certificate, Level 4, SAQA ID 49647, with English Communication.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge and Practical Skill Modules.

Knowledge Modules:

263601001-KM-01, Hindu Religious Philosophy, Level 6, 37 Credits.

263601001-KM-02, Social Dynamics, Level 6, 25 Credits.

263601001-KM-03, Scriptural Literacy, Level 5, 48 Credits.
Total number of Credits for Knowledge Modules: 110.

Practical Skill Modules:

263601001-PM-01, Execute stipulated temple duties, Level 5, 4 Credits.

263601001-PM-02, Provide support to people at different institutions, Level 5, 12 Credits.

263601001-PM-03, Officiate at religious events, Level 6, 52 Credits.

263601001-PM-04, Empower families to live according to a Hindu value system, Level 6, 8 Credits.
Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 76.

This qualification also requires the following Work Experience Modules:

263601001-WM-01, Exposure to the processes of improving Hindu spiritual awareness and growth over a full annual religious cycle, Level 6, 72 Credits.

263601001-WM-02, Exposure to the processes of increasing the awareness, appreciation and understanding of Hinduism as a way of life, Level 6, 18 Credits.

263601001-WM-03, Exposure to the processes of increasing the levels of wellness within the congregation (Physical, mental, emotional and spiritual), Level 5, 14 Credits.

263601001-WM-04, Exposure to the processes of ensuring the appropriate inclusion of Hinduism in relevant community issues, Level 6, 7 Credits.
Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 111.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Perform rites and rituals in order to improve spiritual awareness, spiritual growth and understanding of the relevant Hindu scriptures.
2. Empower the congregation to understand and practice Hindu values.
3. Fulfil social responsibilities within a religious context.
4. Support the Temple management and ensure sustainability.
5. Participate in and provide leadership to external affairs and support community well-being.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Explanations of the rationale for sacraments within a Hindu context will be according to the original Hindu scriptures and valid within the given contexts.

Descriptions of the rites of passage of people at their various life stages will demonstrate a deep understanding of and belief in the Hindu value system.

Explanation of the relevant scriptures that stipulate and provide authority for the various rites is accurate and aligned to the accepted interpretations of the Hindu community.

Descriptions of the impact of associated cultural practices, customs and traditions on the Hindu practices is relevant and give practical answers to the possible life dilemmas that it causes.

Reading of the scriptural texts in the original language is clear, concise and the correct articulation, pronunciation and intonation are used.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Responses to and advice regarding various life situations will be given according to the Hindu scriptures and relevant to the specific context.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Descriptions of the concept of charitable giving is appropriate to the context and aligned with the fundamental Hindu belief system.

Descriptions of processes aimed at building the capacity of congregational members to deal with various life situations is feasible, relevant and aligned with the Hindu belief system.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Descriptions of the need for and processes of good ambassador for the Temple/organisation is relevant, appropriate and aligned with the Hindu belief system.

Preparation and research for the delivery of sermons will lead to an effective, dynamic, relevant and professional services.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Examples of the processes of representing the congregation at community forums and network with relevant stakeholders demonstrate an alignment with the Hindu value system.

Descriptions of the decision making processes within the Hindu community demonstrate a deep understanding of the dynamics and rationale behind the processes.

Examples of appropriate decision making indicate an alignment with the Hindu value system and sensitivity for cultural, social and political implications. Participate in and make contributions to the organised Hindu structures - assist in the consideration of key issues.

Integrated Assessment:
Integrated Formative Assessment:
The skills development provider will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the integrated external summative assessment.

Integrated Summative Assessment:
An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) Assessment Quality Partner is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external Integrated Summative Assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The training of Hindu Religious practitioners is driven by the various Hindu religious organisations globally. A scan was done to compare the Occupational Certificate with the global practices.

NEW DELHI, INDIA:
A two-year Priest training course was launched in 2012. (Lal Bahadur Shastri Sanskrit Vidyapeeth's Purohitya Prashikshan Pathyakram, or Priest Training Curriculum) It has been successful in training Priests from all over the world. The main component of the training focuses on scriptural interpretations using Sanskrit. It also covers the work that the Priest must do in the community.

KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia has set up an academy to train Hindu priests in a bid to reduce the number of foreigners working in temples. The government-funded academy (Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Kuala Lumpur), run by the Hindu Priests Association would help train, grade and certify priests for the 3,000 Hindu temples nationwide which presently use 350 priests from India. The learning covers the full spectrum of the work required from a Priest. (https://hinduexistence.org/2010/04/06/malaysia-sets-up-academy-for-hindu-priests-move-to-increase-the-own-number-of-holy-men-from-malaysia).

HINDU UNIVERSITY OF AMERICA:
For addressing the needs for Hindu priests for global community beyond India, Hindu University has immediate plans for offering Master's Degree and Diploma courses in Paurohtiya, (and for certification for priest who are previously trained elsewhere. The curriculum of the Paurohtiya program is being implemented to train the priest to be effective as functioning as cultural ambassadors' spokespersons on matters of Hindu customs and practices, participate in interfaith meetings, and interact with the current younger generation as well as non-Hindu community. The Master's program in Hindu Priest Studies is designed to include four groups of courses 1. Hindu Tradition Four courses (12 Credits) Principles of Hinduism, Basic Hindu Scriptures, Basic Jyotish, Principles and Practices of Yoga Meditation; Sanskrit Two courses (6 Credits); 3. General Three courses (9 Credits) Public Speaking and Communication Skills; Spiritual Counseling (including social and psychological counseling); and Major World Religions (and community diversities); and 4. Rituals Four courses (12 Credits) - Saskaras, Festivals and Pujas; Rituals in different Sampradayas; and Field Practice (http://www.hua.edu/academics/programs/hindu-priest-studies).

No similar training was recorded on the African continent.

Conclusion:
The South African Occupational Certificate covers the same components that are found in Priest training courses globally, however it is uniquely structured to fit into the South African society and it could form a leading benchmark for this kind of education in Africa.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

Horizontal Articulation is possible to:

Diploma in Social Studies Level 6, (ID 72883).

Vertical Articulation is possible to:

Bachelor of Applied Social Science in Community Service: Level 7, (ID 96416).

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

NOTES

Qualifying for external assessment:
In order to qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of statements of results and work experience including Foundational Learning Competence.

This is a Level 6 qualification.

Additional legal or physical entry requirements:
None.

Criteria for the accreditation of providers:
Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the QCTO website.

The curriculum title and code is: 263601001: Hindu Congregational Leader.

This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:

This is not a trade.

Part Qualifications:

There are no part qualifications.

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

NONE

PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION:

This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.

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